Route 66 Centennial
Arizona Events 2026
From the Route 66 Fun Run to Seligman's Centennial Celebration — five unforgettable events across Arizona's Mother Road.
5
Events
5
Cities
3
Free Events
MAY
01
Route 66 Fun Run — Seligman to Topock
The annual Route 66 Fun Run sends hundreds of classic cars along the original Route 66 alignment from Seligman through Kingman to Topock on the California border. Three days of car shows, parties, and open-road cruising through the most scenic stretch of Route 66 in the Southwest. Nightly events in Kingman include live music, food vendors, and awards ceremonies.
What to Expect
JUN
13
Flagstaff Route 66 Days
Flagstaff celebrates its Route 66 heritage with a weekend festival in the cool pines at 7,000 feet elevation. Classic car shows line the brick streets of historic downtown, live bands play on multiple stages, and local craft breweries set up outdoor tasting stations. Guided walking tours highlight the city's Route 66 landmarks, neon signs, and historic motels.
What to Expect
SEP
25
Winslow Standin' on the Corner Festival
Winslow's annual celebration of Route 66 and the Eagles' legacy features live music, classic cars, art vendors, and the famous Standing on the Corner Park. Multiple stages with tribute bands and local artists perform throughout the weekend. The festival draws thousands to this small Arizona town, with La Posada Hotel hosting special events and the Turquoise Room serving festival menus.
What to Expect
OCT
03
Oatman Gold Rush Days
Oatman celebrates its gold mining heritage with gunfight reenactments, gold panning demonstrations, mine tours, and the famous wild burros roaming Main Street. The two-day festival features live country and Western music, vendors selling turquoise jewelry and Route 66 memorabilia, and hearty food from the Oatman Hotel and local saloons.
What to Expect
NOV
11
Arizona Route 66 Centennial Celebration
On the exact 100th anniversary of Route 66's certification, Seligman — the town that saved Route 66 — hosts Arizona's marquee Centennial celebration. A centennial motorcade drives the original alignment from Flagstaff to Seligman. Ceremonies honor the legacy of Angel Delgadillo, whose 1987 preservation campaign sparked a global movement. The Snow Cap Drive-In and Angel's Barbershop host open houses.
What to Expect
Plan Your Visit
Beat the Heat
Desert sections (Kingman, Oatman, Holbrook) can exceed 110°F in summer. Flagstaff and Williams at 7,000 feet stay cool. Plan desert stops for early morning or late afternoon.
Drive the Route
Arizona's 401 miles include the legendary Oatman Highway — the most scenic stretch on all of Route 66. Not recommended for RVs; take it slow through the switchbacks.
Budget-Friendly
3 of 5 events are completely free. Budget $75 for the Fun Run registration and $20–50 daily for food, souvenirs, and park admissions.
Best Timing
October through April is ideal for desert sections. The Fun Run in May and Standin' on the Corner Festival in September are the marquee events.